BOSTON — In a stunning display of resilience, the New York Knicks pulled off yet another monumental comeback, edging the Boston Celtics 91-90 to take a commanding 2-0 lead in their Eastern Conference semifinal series. This victory marks a remarkable feat for the Knicks, who faced a 20-point deficit both in Game 1 and Game 2, yet managed to turn the tide in dramatic fashion.
For much of the game, the Celtics appeared in control. With a 73-53 advantage midway through the third quarter, Boston seemed poised to level the series. However, the Knicks mounted an impressive rally, outscoring the Celtics 38-17 in the final stretch, thanks largely to pivotal plays from several key players. Jalen Brunson hit the decisive free throws with just under 13 seconds left, while Mikal Bridges secured the win with a crucial defensive stop to stifle Boston’s final attempt.
“That’s the playoffs,” Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau said. “You have to keep fighting. Every possession matters, and you’ve got to play all 48 minutes.”
The beginning of Game 2 was anything but smooth for the Knicks, who struggled offensively. New York went scoreless on their first nine possessions, wrapping up the first quarter with only four points just before the midway mark. Although the Celtics capitalized on New York’s slow start to build a significant lead, their own scoring dried up dramatically in the fourth quarter.
After leading by as many as 16 points, the Celtics managed just one field goal during a crucial stretch, going 0-for-13 from the field. This allowed the Knicks to launch a turnaround fueled by momentum and tenacity. Key defensive plays and opportunistic scoring became the hallmarks of their comeback, with Bridges stepping into the limelight despite a rocky start. Ending the game with 14 points in the fourth quarter alone, he illustrated his importance to the team’s success.
While Brunson’s scoring ability was recognized during the clash, it was Josh Hart’s unexpected performance that caught attention as he led all scorers with 23 points. Hart took advantage of defensive lapses by the Celtics, contributing a variety of essential baskets that propelled the Knicks back into contention. He showed a willingness to capitalize on opportunities, sinking three 3-pointers and setting up key plays for teammates.
However, questions loom for the Celtics, who are grappling with an unexpected slump. In a trend that’s left analysts and fans puzzled, Boston has now lost two playoff games in which they held 20-point advantages. This poor performance stands in stark contrast to their dominant performance throughout the previous postseason where they rarely faced serious threats.
“It’s an opportunity to show what we’re made of,” Celtics forward Jaylen Brown reflected following the game. “We wouldn’t want to be in this position, but we have to respond.”
As the series shifts to Madison Square Garden for Game 3, the pressure intensifies for Boston. Despite their struggles at home, the Celtics have a track record of performing better on the road. They will need to rally together and exhibit the championship caliber that carried them through the playoffs last year.
The upcoming match promises to be a true test of resilience as both teams vie not only for victory but for momentum in a compelling series. The Knicks aim to capitalize on their newfound confidence, while the Celtics seek redemption and a chance to get back to their winning ways.